Traders split over new Lidl plan
Traders are split over plans for a new supermarket at Halesowen. Lidl is hoping to transform the former Peugeot garage on Hagley Road into a store.
But the proposals have drawn a mixed reaction from members of the Halesowen Chamber of Trade.
Some support the view that a supermarket would create jobs and move the town forward – but others claim it could stop shoppers venturing into the town centre.
The plans are set to go before members of Dudley Council's development control committee on Monday. The project has been recommended for approval by planning officials but councillors on the committee will have the final say.
Demolition work at the former car garage site has already started.
About 1,000 households in the Halesowen area received a leaflet on the proposals and an open evening has also been held. A petition signed by 21 people in favour of the scheme has also been drawn up.
Chairman of Halesowen Chamber of Trade, Stephen Fitzpatrick, said: "The Chamber of Trade has held an extraordinary meeting on the matter, and the chamber was split on the decision as to whether to support the application."
